Contextual spatial planning for livable spaces in Bali: Integrating local wisdom and digital licensing systems

Faculty of Engineering, Udayana University, Bali, Indonesia

^* Corresponding author: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Abstract

This paper proposes a contextual spatial planning model that integrates Balinese local wisdom such as sacred zones, temple orientation, cliff setbacks, and building height restrictions into Indonesia's digital spatial planning and licensing system (RDTR and OSS). The research is driven by escalating spatial conflicts in Bali caused by the weak operationalization of customary norms in modern regulatory frameworks. Using a multidimensional qualitative approach that combines thematic analysis, grounded theory coding, systems thinking, and GIS-based spatial parameterization, the study formulates a technical model that translates sacred spatial values into measurable zoning rules. The model strengthens the legitimacy and effectiveness of land-use control while protecting the cultural identity of space. By embedding customary spatial ethics into digital licensing workflows, it enhances regulatory certainty and supports sustainable development aligned with cultural and ecological principles. The findings contribute to spatial governance discourse by demonstrating how indigenous spatial values can coexist with standardized planning instruments through technical innovation. The model offers an applicable framework for other culturally significant regions experiencing rapid development and centralized digitalization of spatial policy.